Surge in business for popular port venue

Bosses at the Marine Hall in Fleetwood are reporting a surge in business over the festive period.

The venue’s Christmas Market saw visitor numbers rise by around a third compared to 2013.

The increasing popularity of the annual event – which attracted 63 stalls and more than 4,500 visitors, compared to 45 stalls and 3,500 visitors the year before – was highlighted in a report to Wyre councillors.

The pantomime last month attracted slightly more people than in 2013, with the audience growing from 2,036 to 2,130.

In her report to councillors, Wyre’s leisure and culture portfolio holder Coun Lynne Bowen said: “The Christmas period at the Marine Hall was extremely busy.”

The venue’s Christmas party also saw a surge in its popularity, attracting 188 guests in 2014, compared to 48 the previous year.

The report added: “Bar income remained similar over both years, at just under £2,500.”